They know where you're looking — even underwater. New study reveals seal intelligence

Imagine trying to tell where someone is looking — underwater. For most humans, even seeing a face clearly is a challenge. But seals? They apparently have no problem figuring it out.

A new experiment has revealed that trained seals can follow human gaze direction beneath the water surface — a skill long thought to be limited to humans, primates and a few birds like ravens.

Researchers tested whether the seals would use only eye direction to locate hidden targets — and they did, even when the human’s head remained still.

According to a report from Italian media, the experiment involved underwater screens, transparent panels and carefully measured body language to isolate gaze signals alone.

👁️ Who tracks eye direction — and why

📉 Myth vs truth

• Myth: Underwater vision is too blurry for gaze reading.
  Truth: Seals have evolved sharp aquatic visual skills.
• Myth: Only land mammals interpret eye direction.
  Truth: This study proves marine mammals can too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

• Why would a seal need this skill?
  To respond to human handlers, cooperate with others, or anticipate threats.
• Do seals see better than humans underwater?
  Yes — their eyes are adapted to murky, low-light environments.
• Can this be used in training?
  Definitely — trainers now use silent visual cues with seals more effectively.

Fun fact: some seals responded to the human gaze before any other cue — suggesting they aren’t just following movement, but reading intention.